A FAMILY have paid tribute to "vibrant and intelligent" 18-year-old Carys Hammond who died on Monday.

The teenager was driving along Brickman’s Hill between Bradfield and Mistley shortly before 7.25pm when her car left the road and crashed into a bridge.

Sadly, Carys, who lived in Bradfield, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her family said: “Carys was vibrant, intelligent, vivacious, and a totally loved daughter and sister, who was adored by all who knew her.

“She was so full of life and truly touched the heart and souls of everyone that knew and loved her.

“Carys had a talent for sport and a passion for cricket, playing for three local clubs.

“She had hundreds of friends who just loved to be in her company.

"She had a sparkle that always lit up a room and she was a ray of sunshine to us all.

“We cannot find the words to describe the utter devastation that we as a family and her friends are feeling.

“With this in mind, we request privacy and trust this will be respected in the days and weeks ahead.”